Fire risk alert as most disposable vape users plan to stockpile before ban

Fire safety experts are sounding the alarm as the UK prepares to ban disposable vapes on 1 June, with serious concerns over the potentially life-threatening impact of stockpiling.

According to new research by Haypp, a staggering 82 per cent of disposable vape users are planning to stock-pile disposable vapes before they are banned. In addition, 37 per cent plan to buy a three-month supply, and 28 per cent admit they’ll purchase enough to last more than six months, signalling a widespread rush to hoard products before they disappear from shelves.

Last month, speaking at a House of Lords debate on the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, Baroness Fox of Buckley, who revealed her personal success story of quitting smoking through flavoured disposable vapes, has also echoed similar sentiment, saying she was stocking up ahead of the ban.

Professor Paul Christensen, an expert in lithium-ion battery safety, urged vape users to stop and think before rushing to stockpile disposable vapes.

“The sealed lithium-ion batteries inside disposable vapes can become unstable when exposed to heat, moisture, or physical damage, especially if stored in large quantities. In some cases, this can trigger what’s known as thermal runaway — a reaction that can lead to fires, toxic gas release, or even explosions,” Professor Christensen said.

“While incidents are rare, the risk increases significantly when devices are mishandled or stored without care and as the number of stored vapes increases. Storing vapes in confined or unventilated spaces, like under stairs or in cupboards increases the risk.”

Disposable vapes typically have a shelf life of 12 to 24 months, but poor storage conditions can shorten that dramatically, Christensen added.

“To reduce the risk, keep any disposable vapes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. They should never be crushed, punctured, or stored in bulk. With so many users planning to buy ahead of the ban, simple safety steps like ventilation and proper handling can make all the difference,” he said.

Beyond the bulk-buying boom, the survey by Haypp uncovers other worrying trends. Over a third (34%) would consider buying illegal disposable vapes after the ban, with interest highest among 18–24s (39%) and over-55s (40%).

Additionally, a significant majority (78%) of current disposable vape users oppose the disposable ban, and 77 per cent believe the government should not have the right to enforce product bans like this.

“Without clear guidance for consumers on suitable alternatives to disposable vapes, the upcoming ban could backfire, pushing vapers to hoard devices or switch to cigarettes,” Dr Marina Murphy, Director of Scientific Affairs at Haypp, said.

“Stockpiling may feel like a quick fix, but the real long-term gain comes from making informed choices for your health, your safety, and the safety of those around you.”